When someone says "you know" while talking to you, it is often used as a filler phrase or a conversational tic. It is a way for the speaker to seek validation or confirmation from the listener or to gauge if the listener shares their understanding of a particular point or idea.
Here are a few common ways "you know" is used in conversation:
- Seeking agreement: When someone says, "you know" after making a statement, they might be seeking validation or agreement from the listener. It's as if they are asking, "Do you understand what I'm saying? Do you agree with me?"
Example: "I think the weather has been quite unpredictable lately, you know?"
- Emphasizing a point: Sometimes, "you know" is used to emphasize a statement, drawing attention to a specific detail or idea.
Example: "He's always late for meetings, you know, even though he knows the schedule."
- Filler phrase: Similar to "um" or "uh," "you know" can be used as a filler when the speaker is thinking or trying to organize their thoughts.
Example: "So, you know, we were planning to, you know, go to the movie, but, you know, we changed our minds."
It's worth noting that the use of "you know" in conversation can vary depending on cultural and regional factors. Some people may use it more frequently as a part of their speaking style, while others may not use it at all.
In general, the use of filler phrases like "you know" is a common aspect of spoken language and is often not a cause for concern. It's just a natural way that people express themselves and connect during conversations.